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Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology
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Overview
Earn a degree working with smart technology!
Mechatronics engineering technologists use a combination of mechanical, electrical, computer, and software skills to work with smart technologies, such as robots, automated guided systems, and computer-integrated manufacturing equipment.
What will I learn in the Advanced Mechatronics Engineering program?
The term mechatronics is a combination of “mechanisms” and “electronics,” but a degree in mechatronics incorporates so much more. CWI's mechatronics engineering technology program gives you a broad range of knowledge and skills in:
- Basics of Electricity, Electronics, Motor Basics (3 Phase)
- HMI & VFD Training
- Automation Controllers (Allen Bradley PLCs)
- Instrumentation (Sensors - Data Acquisition)
- FANUC Robotics, Pneumatics/Hydraulics
- IPC Soldering Skills
- Mechanical Adjustments
- Networking & C++
- Microcontrollers
- Wireless Communications
- Process Controls Systems
- Alternative Energy Sources
What does a mechatronics engineer do?
During this course, you will learn the skills, methodologies, and concepts needed to perform everyday tasks in this high-demand industry, including:
- How to analyze serial and parallel circuits related to DC and AC
- The fundamental knowledge of analog devices, digital devices, pneumatic devices and operation
- Basic programing concepts
- IPC soldering skills and component replacement
- Program and utilize PLC controllers to perform a given task
- Microcontroller programing and application
- Robotic operation, application, and needed skills to pass the basic FANUC robotics operation certification exam
- Make use of standard and advanced electronic components
- Troubleshoot and repair industrial systems
Do you want to earn your degree while working?
You can now earn your Advanced Mechatronics and Engineering Technology (AMET) Basic Technical Certificate (BTC) with NEW HYBRID courses to work with your schedule. Courses in this certificate path are offered in a hybrid format that is in an asynchronous online learning environment, "hands on" at home labs, as well as face to face labs. This structure provides you a flexible opportunity to learn while working part-time or full-time. All of our new courses include the following features:
- Asynchronous online learning allows you to learn theory at your own pace based on a weekly schedule
- Recorded lectures, demonstrations, and lab instructions
- At home Lab equipment provided with online demonstration videos
- Equipment included: digital multimeter, power supply, function generator, oscilloscope, breadboard, and electronic leads and components
- Face to Face lab times designed to work around common shift work schedules
- Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m.
- Complete more difficult labs and get help with at home labs
After completing the AMET BTC, you can continue on towards your AMET Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. The second year of our AMET program is in person with a staggered schedule, alternating course days from Monday Tuesday to Thursday Friday every semester to stay worker and shift friendly. The completion of your AMET AAS degree is a great way to further your career towards promotions and new job opportunities.
Contact the Department Chair of Engineering Robert Novak for more information: robertnovak@cwi.edu
Available INDUSTRY Certifications
Mission
Our mission is to develop qualified technicians for regional companies that work in the field of manufacturing, wireless communications, medical equipment, energy production, or food processing. Our goal is to offer the highest level of training in electronics and electronically controlled equipment used in those fields.
Why This Program
This is an established, very successful program (formerly Electronics Technology) that has historically placed technicians both locally and nationally. The last few years it has adopted the skill set that is desired by industries across the country, MECHATRONICS, and now has changed the program name to better reflect the actual training that students receive. With continued investment in technology, we have enhanced our program to offer the newest, highest-level training available in Idaho, and will position the students to excel in their jobs.
Clubs
Additional Opportunities
Students learn about electricity, electronics, mechanics, pneumatics, robotics, wireless communication, renewable energy, instrumentation and industry computerized control systems (PLCs).
Requirements and Costs
Degrees and Certificates
Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology - Associate of Applied Science Degree
2
YEARSAAS
*See the Course Delivery Styles page for details about class options
Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology - Basic Technical Certificate
1
YEARBTC
*See the Course Delivery Styles page for details about class options
Important Dates for Credit Programs
Summer 2022 | Fall 2022 | Spring 2023 | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Priority Registration Begins1 | n/a | April 11 | November 14 | |
Open Registration Begins | February 28 | April 18 | November 21 | |
Financial Aid Priority Deadline | May 14 | July 30 | December 17 | |
Admission Deadline2 | May 28 | August 13 | January 7 | |
Last Day to Register for Classes | June 3 | August 19 | January 13 | |
Tuition and Fees Due | June 3 | August 19 | January 13 | |
Classes Begin3 | June 6 | August 22 | January 17 | |
1 Priority registration is limited to continuing students. Students are assigned a registration time based upon their cumulative credits earned. Students should check myCWI and their CWI email to learn their assigned registration time. Students may register online anytime on or after their assigned registration time. | ||||
2 The admission deadline for international students is earlier than the deadline for non-international students and is only available during the fall and spring semesters. Please consult the Academic Calendar for the international student admission deadlines for the fall and spring semesters. | ||||
3 Some classes begin before or after this date. Please refer to the Registration and Refund Deadlines by Class Section Dates (located beneath each semester) of the Academic Calendar for more information. |
Skills, Traits, and Prep Classes
- Familiarity with math and algebra
- Aptitude in mechanics and some level of manual dexterity
- Computer (PC) familiarity and work experience
- Reasonable-to-good abilities in written and verbal communications
- An interest in problem solving and the ability to master puzzles
- Ability to follow directions and pay attention to details
Advising
Navigating your way through college can be confusing, especially if you try to go it alone. CWI offers advising assistance to help in deciding which courses you need to take to reach your education and career goals. Visit Advising or contact One Stop Student Services for more information.
Financial Aid Available
Did you know that as a student in this program you may be eligible for financial aid? Through grants, scholarships, and loans, more than 60 percent of first-time, full-time CWI students receive some form of financial assistance. To learn more about financial aid options and whether you may be eligible, visit Financial Aid.
Tuition and Fees
Tuition for a full-time CWI student averages half the cost of a state university and a third of the cost of a private college. Tuition and fees vary based on program and residence. Visit Tuition and Fees for more information.
Career Info
This rebranded program (formerly Electronics Technology) will allow students to get the training and learn the skills sets desired by all companies that deal with high-tech equipment. CWI's Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology program will prepare students for employment in a wide variety of industries. They will receive training in state-of-the-art concepts and equipment used in the nation's most advanced manufacturing plants. Their roles at the companies include installing, adjusting, calibrating, and maintaining instrumentation and process equipment. Training will include basic electronics, instrumentation and controls, robotics, pneumatics, programmable controllers, renewable energy and wireless communications.
Professions
- Manufacturing
- Biomedical Field
- Instrumentation and Controls
- Process Control
- Energy - Wind Turbines
- Energy - Hydro
- Electronic Equipment Maintenance
Locations
Instructors
Program Department Chair
Instructor(s)
Respectful Community
The College of Western Idaho is committed to maintaining a Respectful Community by providing equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate in services, benefits, or activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability status, veteran status, age, or any other legally protected status. More on Title IX
News and Blogs

Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology student, Jacob Schott, is on his way to a full-time career with a local information systems consulting firm.

The Nagel Foundation scholarship empowers second-year career and technical education students to complete their education.

Congratulations to Bradley Dougal, a 2019-2020 Nagel Foundation scholarship recipient.

Business of Robotics Symposium delights attendees with live robotics demonstration, a tour, and industry expertise.

Watch a live robotics demonstration and learn from industry experts at the Business of Robotics Symposium.

A group of CWI students and recent graduates also won medals in a school record five events.
Career & Technical Education
- Administrative Specialist
- Advanced Mechatronics Engineering Technology
- Automotive Technology
- Bookkeeping and Accounting
- Cisco Networking and Security Technologies
- Collision Repair Technology
- Computer Support Specialist
- Cybersecurity
- Dental Assisting
- Drafting Technology
- Education, Early Childhood
- Fire Service Management
- Fire Service Technology
- Heavy Duty Truck Technician
- Heavy Equipment Technician
- Horticulture Technology
- Law Enforcement
- Machine Tool Technology
- Marketing Communications
- Medical Administrative Support
- Medical Assistant - Credit
- Network and System Administration
- Nursing, Practical
- Occupational Therapy Assistant
- Physical Therapist Assistant
- Powersports and Small Engine Repair Technology
- Professional Truck Driving
- Software Development
- Surgical Technology
- Swift Programming
- Unmanned Aerial Systems
- Welding and Metals Fabrication
- Wildland Fire Management